National Institutes of Health

The National Institutes of Health is the medical research agency of the United States government. It supports scientific studies intended to turn discovery into better health, and it also runs research of its own on campuses across the country.

Services

• Research funding: describes itself as the largest source of funding for medical research in the world.
• Intramural research: Scientists work on NIH campuses through its Intramural Research Program.
• Institutes and centres: 27 institutes and centres make up the agency, each with its own director and contact details.
• Public health information: Guidance and news on topics such as heart health, seasonal mood changes and safe sleep for babies.
• Clinical research information: material on clinical trials and on talking to a doctor.

Key facts

• Parent body: US Department of Health and Human Services
• Structure: 27 institutes and centres, with an Office of the Director